Other conventional optimization measures are of course ­sensible. Following a flow analysis, simple modifications of flow guide panels or insulating mats in the racks can optimize the flow conditions to such an extent that substantial savings in the cooling and ultimately in power consumption become measurable.

New concepts and computer center strategies supplement the short-term measures

More and more computer centers in the future will implement energy-optimizing and cost-saving power supply solutions.

Computer centers in regions with a high or medium level of solar radiation can be powered using solar cell systems. Wind power plants or entire wind farms can come into play as a ­renewable energy source and basis for cost-cutting and sustainable power supply in computer centers located in coastal regions and other areas of the world with high wind levels, such as the German North Sea coast.

Fuel cells powered with biogas provide additional energy, ­especially as substitutes for UPS and generators. A fuel cell is constructed like an electric sandwich. It generates electricity and heat when the electric anode is supplied with hydrogen and the cathode with oxygen from the air. They are separated by an electrolyte made of lithium and potassium carbonate. If methane and water are added to the fuel cell, it releases hydrogen. The hydrogen reacts with the carbonate ions of the electrolytes to create water and carbon dioxide, releasing electrons in the process. The carbon dioxide, together with oxygen from the air, is directed to the cathode. The consumption of the electrons produces a steady stream of new carbonate ions, in turn releasing heat. The carbonate ions travel through the electrolytes to the anode, completing the electric circuit.

Kinetic energy storage units have become ready for the market alongside the established chemical storage units (UPS batteries). New materials such as fiberglass and carbon fiber composites and the lower costs for the manufacture of high-temperature superconductors are clearing the way to non-contact mounting of centrifugal mass storage units and higher output values. Such technologies allow the realization of energy storage units with a high short-term active load as primary sources when there are power failures and at the same time have an energy-conservation function – an estimated 30%.

Moreover, computer centers can exploit the cooling capacities found in nature by connecting directly to and tapping into groundwater, rivers, and lakes, minimizing energy ­consumption even further. Servers and racks can be connected directly to their cooling functions, or indirect savings can be achieved by directing the liquid into the cooling equipment.